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Veteran officer returns to Covington Police

From left, Police Chief Brian Valenti, Mayor Joe Meyer, and Officer William Kelley.

Kelley the 10th officer hired under retire-rehire program

COVINGTON, Ky. – A familiar face was sworn in today as a “new” officer with the Covington Police Department.

William Kelley, who retired July 31 after over 23 years with Covington, was rehired on a one-year contract under a program approved by the Kentucky General Assembly in 2016 for officers with 20 years or more of experience.

“Welcome back,” Mayor Joe Meyer told Kelley.

“I look forward to being back,” Kelley responded.

Police Chief Brian Valenti said Kelley is the 10th veteran officer Covington has hired under the program.

“It’s a very valuable program for us, especially in an era where departments across the country are having challenges recruiting,” Valenti said.

Kelley, who has 25 years’ experience overall in public safety, will join the Patrol Bureau.

During his time in Covington, he served across all four Police bureaus, including as Commander of the Patrol Bureau, Criminal Investigations, and the D-Team. He also served as Accreditation Manager.

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